Director of the McNair Program and Collegiate Science
and Technology Entry Program (CSTEP) Carol Kissam says
she’d probably live on campus 24/7. If she had the
time, she would stay on the St. Lawrence campus each weekday evening
and on the weekends to be a part of all the learning, culture and
fun. She describes herself as a life-long learner in an
environment that surrounds her with wonderful opportunities.
Kissam plays the violin and viola and has thoroughly enjoyed rehearsing
and performing with students, faculty and staff in some of the
University's music ensembles. She holds a bachelor's degree
and master's degree from nearby SUNY Potsdam and has worked as
a reporter for a local newspaper.
The McNair Program provides a federal grant to St. Lawrence which
is designed to support students from first-generation/low-income
and diverse backgrounds in their efforts to attain a Ph.D. or other
graduate degree. CSTEP has a similar aim, to help minority
students excel in a college setting.
"There are many rewarding aspects of working at St. Lawrence," says
Kissam. “I find the diversity of interests and cultural backgrounds
of my students to be intellectually stimulating. Their willingness
to trust and be open and honest is very heart-warming. And,
I find the welcoming and upbeat work relationship with my colleagues
encouraging and energizing."
